Climate
Sandakan is usually when the average temperatures are at a comfortable level (between 20°C / 68.0°F and 30°C / 86.0°F on average) which fortunately is throughout the year. This means it's ideal for all sorts of activities - indoors or outdoors - and the heat shouldn't slow you down too much.

The warmest time of year in Sandakan is in May when it is 28.35°C / 83.0°F on average, but could get up to 32.6°C / 90.7°F maximum. Visitors need to wear comfortable clothing to avoid heatstroke. The coldest time of year here is in January when it is 26.5°C / 79.7°F on average. However, going by the minimum temperatures, the coldest month is September at 23.4°C / 74.1°F. We also have occasional rains, therefore, it's advisable to always bring an umbrella in case it rains.

Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (RM)
Foreign currencies and travellers' cheque can be changed for Malaysian Ringgit at banks and hotels. Most major hotels charge a nominal fee for currency conversion.

Major Credit and Charge Cards
VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club-credit and charge cards are accepted in almost all departmental stores, supermarkets, petrol stations and restaurants.

Banking Hours
Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 3pm

Local Time
Standard Malaysian Time is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+8)

Usual Office Hours
Monday to Friday from 8am-1pm and 2pm-5pm; Saturday from 8am-1pm

Electricity & Water Facilities
Electricity is on the 240 Volts AC/ 50-Cycle system; treated pipe water is available in most areas.

Languages
Bahasa Malaysia (national language) and English is widely spoken; Mandarin and some Chinese dialects are also widely spoken.

Telecommunications
Most of the parts in Sabah with the exception of some remote areas are linked nationally and internationally by telephone, facsimile, telegraph and via the Internet. Most hotels provide International Direct Dial (IDD) telephone services.

Medical
Government hospitals, clinics and dispensaries are available in all towns. The list of private medical practitioners and pharmacies are available in the local phone directory. However, those with specific medical needs are advised to have a good supply of medications.

Entry Requirements
1. A valid passport (and visa wherever is applicable) is required.
2. A Social or Tourist Visit Pass does not permit the holder to take up employment, business or professional work in Malaysia.
3. The Business Visit Pass allows foreign visitors to enter the country for business negotiations or inspection of business premises.
These passes however, cannot be used for employment purposes or for supervising the installation of new machinery or the construction
of a factory.
4. A fee is charged for a Professional Visit Pass depending on purpose of visit, profession and country.

Common Greetings
In Sabah, we greet people by saying "Selamat Datang"(welcome) and/ or "Terima Kasih" (Thank You) with a smile. Due to religious reasons, some may prefer not to have physical contact with others. However, a handshake is generally acceptable as a way of introducing oneself.